![UK plans massive power switch off to protest rising energy costs](https://maltadaily.mt/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/energyweb.jpg)
The Big Power Off protest saw hundreds of homes in the UK switching off their electricity and power in protest against energy costs.
Taking place at 10pm on Sunday 10th April in the UK, people switched off all electrical devices for 10 minutes straights. The aim of this ‘non-partisan’ action was to create enough of an imbalance in the national grid to get the attention of government.
This, the protesters aimed, would force companies and the government to reduce costs as surges are experienced everywhere. Video footage showed online appears to show lights across Glasgow flickering twice in quick succession at around 10pm.
Organisers claimed that similar protests will continue to take place until action is taken to reduce the energy costs. Another one is being planned for 7pm on Saturday 16th April, to coincide with parliament returning from recess.
Organiser Karen Brady wrote to Twitter saying that ‘Next #BigPowerOff2 will be earlier at 7pm Saturday 16th April, just before Parliament arrives back from their holiday.’
One of the reasons is the over reliance of UK on Russian energy sources. The sanctions imposed on Russia due to the invasion of Ukraine has impacted the costs drastically. However, some are arguing that the protest is purely political as they wish governments helped more those who are struggling.
The Resolution Foundation suggests that 1.3million people, including around 500,000 children, could be pushed into absolute poverty as a result of the cost-of-living crisis.
Meanwhile, oil prices are tumbling as economies start to show signs of strain. With COVID playing a major role in the crime, million of people aren’t driving or flying in the world’ second largest oil consuming country, Shanghai.
China’s consumer prices rose up 1.5% in March, led by higher by fuel and food prices. The risk of recession is rising in many other major countries, with a combination of stagnant economic growth and rising inflation making a dangerous combination.
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